Wind Test Methodology for Loose-Laid Roof Elements and Components

This report concerns an investigation into the wind performance limits of loose-laid roof elements, as exemplified by membranes, pavers and other components of ballasted single-ply roofing systems. On the basis of comparisons between small scale model tests in Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) wind tunnels and full scale prototype tests in aeronautical wind tunnels, a test method is developed and a semi-empirical analysis procedure is presented to account for the effects of air turbulence upon the limit windspeeds observed.

Pardo, JE member of the American Institute of Architects, the Wind Engineering Research Council, the Single Ply Roofing Institute Technical Committee, and Director of the Innovative Design Research Division, NCMA, Herndon, VA